Leadership and Vision in IT and Higher Education.

A rare opportunity

I recently coached two friends, both of whom are thinking about moving to different organizations. I'd like to repeat part of that conversation here, for anyone who faces a similar transition.

When you move from one organization to the next, you have a rare opportunity to completely relax. This separation will help you as you transition into your new role, helping provide a clarity that only comes with "time out." That time is precious - don't "waste" it by skipping immediately to the next job. If you can take some time out, I recommend you take it. Even if it's only a week.

Let me use myself as an example. In early June, I announced that I was leaving OIT, to become the Campus IT Director for the University of Minnesota, Morris. I said: "My last day with OIT will be Friday June 18. I'll have a few weeks for relocation, then I'll start at Morris on Monday July 12."

I had an entire month to myself! Sure, the first few days were spent how I usually start a vacation: I stayed up late, and I slept in. But then I came to an amazing realization: I didn't have any responsibilities.

My access in OIT had been revoked. I'd already transitioned all my duties to the next manager. No matter what emergency happened at my old office, there was nothing I could do.

I hadn't yet been granted any access at Morris. I had been named the new IT Director, and a few people knew me. I'd met the Computing Services staff during my interview. But if something major happened, there was virtually nothing for me to do.

Without any responsibilities, I truly began to relax. And even though my wife and I spent part of that "month off" buying a house and moving, I didn't care.

When that month ended, and it was time to get back into gear, I found I could think more clearly. I could focus more easily. I could prioritize more efficiently, because that clarity brought perspective.